Russia Travel Guides

Overview:

As Russia moves forward into the 21st century, it leaves behind
a turbulent history of tyranny and a crippled economy: from Ivan
the Terrible to Peter the Great, from the fall of the Tsars to the
dictatorship of the Soviet government; today Russia is a nation
embracing its newfound freedom and future potential, whilst
enjoying a renewal of the rich cultural heritage of its past.

Despite the visible effects of hardship and economic disparity,
and its previous isolation from the rest of the world, travellers
will encounter a country of enormous diversity and vitality, with
cultural treasures and historical monuments, great imperial cities
and glittering cathedrals. Visitors will experience the enchantment
of Tchaikovsky, the Kirov and Bolshoi Ballet, and marvel at
priceless Russian icons and the unique style of decorative
onion-domed architecture.

Most westerners associate Russia with the great imperial centres
of Moscow and St Petersburg, and although these two cities, the
capital and the beautiful 'Venice of the North' are a must-see,
they are a mere scratching on the surface of this vast and varied
land. Straddling two continents and 11 time zones, the Russian
Federation is the largest country on earth, nearly twice the size
of the United States of America. Within this impressive expanse lie
natural wonders such as Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world,
and beautiful mountains, rivers and forests abounding with wildlife
as well as timeless traditional villages scattered across the
Siberian landscape.

Visitors taking the opportunity to explore Russia will not be
disappointed: its impressive museums, overwhelming sense of
history, culture and unspoilt wilderness will leave one with a
desire to see more.